How can Romans 1:28 guide us in making righteous decisions today? The Verse in Focus “And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done.” (Romans 1:28) What Romans 1:28 Reveals • Rejecting God’s rule over the mind leads to a “depraved” (unapproved, tested and found worthless) way of thinking. • When people persistently dismiss God, He honors their choice and withdraws restraining grace, allowing them to follow corrupt reasoning. • Ungodly decisions flow from an ungodly mind; righteous decisions require a God–acknowledging mind. Guarding the Mind Godward • Proverbs 3:5-6—Trust the Lord, not your own understanding. • Romans 12:2—“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” • Philippians 4:8—Think on whatever is true, honorable, just, pure. These passages show the antidote to a depraved mind: continual renewal through truth. How to Make Righteous Decisions Today 1. Invite God into every thought. • Psalm 139:23-24—Ask Him to search and test your thoughts. 2. Filter choices through Scripture. • Psalm 119:105—His word is a lamp to your feet; let it illumine each decision. 3. Seek wisdom from the Spirit. • James 1:5—He gives wisdom generously to those who ask. 4. Surround yourself with godly counsel. • Proverbs 13:20—Walk with the wise and become wise. 5. Evaluate motives. • Hebrews 4:12—The word discerns thoughts and intentions; submit motives to its scrutiny. 6. Assess outcomes by God’s standards, not culture’s applause. • Galatians 1:10—Do I seek the approval of man or of God? 7. Act promptly in obedience once clarity comes. • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Warning Signs of a Drifting Mind • Rationalizing behavior Scripture condemns. • Dulling conviction when confronted with sin. • Trading biblical absolutes for cultural preferences. • Neglecting consistent time in the Word and prayer. • Isolation from accountable Christian fellowship. Cultivating a Mind the Lord Can Bless • Daily Scripture intake—Colossians 3:16, “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you.” • Memorization & meditation—Joshua 1:8, success tied to constant meditation. • Worship-filled environment—Ephesians 5:19, psalms and hymns fortify the mind. • Service & obedience—John 7:17, understanding grows as we do His will. Living the Contrast Romans 1:28 depicts the tragic result of ignoring God; believers are called to the opposite—to acknowledge Him in every thought and step. By guarding our minds with His truth, seeking His wisdom, and obeying promptly, we ensure that our decisions remain righteous, honoring the One who renews and sustains us. |
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